A major artificial turf company sued four scientists before they could present research on potential health risks linked to synthetic grass used in schools, parks, and backyards.
Hiroko Tabuchi and Ken Belson report for The New York Times.
In short:
- A seminar on the health risks of synthetic turf, including PFAS exposure, was canceled after the manufacturer Polyloom sued the speakers for defamation.
- Artificial turf fields, now found in tens of thousands of locations across the U.S., have been linked to chemical exposure, heat stress, and microplastic pollution, yet human health studies remain limited.
- The scientists countersued, arguing the lawsuit was a SLAPP (strategic lawsuit against public participation) designed to silence public discussion of turf safety at a time when the turf industry faces mounting scrutiny and regulation.
Key quote:
“Silencing scientists is really hurting communities because they don’t have access to the information that they need to make evidence-based decisions.”
— Sarah Evans, assistant professor, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Why this matters:
Artificial turf is everywhere kids play — but it may expose them to toxic chemicals and extreme heat. Now, a major manufacturer is suing four scientists simply for trying to talk about what might be hiding amongst the shiny green blades. Suing scientists for raising red flags sets a dangerous precedent, especially as the U.S. faces mounting public health concerns around chemical exposure and environmental safety.
